House Republicans Pick Tom Emmer as New Speaker Nominee

The Wall Street Journal: House Republicans have chosen Tom Emmer as their nominee for Speaker of the House, edging out Rep. Mike Johnson in a final vote of 117 to 97. The selection comes after weeks of internal party discord and aims to bring stability so lawmakers can address pressing issues like aid to Israel and a looming government funding deadline. However, the narrow victory for Emmer highlights ongoing divisions within the party. More than 20 members indicated they wouldn’t support Emmer in a floor vote, prompting him to hold a town hall to address concerns.

Emmer must secure 217 votes in the 433-member House to become Speaker. With Republicans holding 221 seats, he can afford to lose no more than four GOP votes if all Democrats back their candidate, Rep. Hakeem Jeffries. Some Republicans are proposing new voting rules to push holdouts into supporting the party nominee. Meanwhile, moderate Democrats like Rep. Dean Phillips indicated potential willingness to help Emmer, provided certain conditions are met.

The Republican party remains divided on issues such as spending and fiscal responsibility, but there is a general sentiment among lawmakers that the most contentious phase of their internal struggle is over.

The entire article can be read at the link House Republicans Pick Tom Emmer as New Speaker Nominee – WSJ